As cold and flu season approaches, many of us are looking for ways to boost our immune systems and alleviate symptoms. Elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec are two popular options, but can they be taken together safely?
In this article, we’ll explore the potential interactions between these two medications and provide some helpful tips for managing cold and flu symptoms.
So, sit back, grab a warm cup of tea, and let’s dive in!
Can You Take Elderberry Cough Syrup With Zyrtec?
Elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec are both commonly used to alleviate cold and flu symptoms. However, there are potential interactions between these two medications that should be considered before taking them together.
According to a phase IV clinical study by eHealthMe, there have been reports of injection site reactions among females and abdominal discomfort among males who take Zyrtec and Elderberry together. While these interactions are not common, it’s important to be aware of them.
Additionally, there are 249 drugs known to interact with Children’s Zyrtec (cetirizine), including 246 moderate interactions and 1 major interaction. It’s important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any new medications or supplements, including elderberry cough syrup.
What Is Elderberry Cough Syrup?
Elderberry cough syrup is a natural remedy made from the berries of the Sambucus tree. The syrup is known for its immune-boosting properties and is commonly used to alleviate cold and flu symptoms such as cough, congestion, sore throat, and fever. Elderberry syrup is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin C, which helps to protect cells from damage and prevent heart disease and cancer.
There are various types of elderberry cough syrup available on the market, including non-drowsy formulas that contain active ingredients like Dextromethorphan HBr and Guaifenesin. Some elderberry cough syrups are also formulated with other natural ingredients like Wild Cherry Bark, honey, and essential oils, which provide additional benefits for cold and flu symptoms.
It’s important to note that elderberry cough syrup should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or prescribed medications. It’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any new supplements or medications, including elderberry cough syrup. This is especially important if you are taking other medications or have any underlying health conditions.
What Is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec, also known as cetirizine hydrochloride, is an antihistamine medication commonly used to treat allergies. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body in response to allergens. Zyrtec is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and syrup. It is often used to alleviate symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
According to eHealthMe, a website that conducts research on drug interactions and side effects, there are currently 99,160 Zyrtec users being studied for its effectiveness and alternative drugs. Zyrtec is known to have 2 disease interactions and 1 alcohol/food interaction. Additionally, there are 249 drugs known to interact with Zyrtec, including 1 major interaction and 246 moderate interactions.
It’s important to note that certain medications should not be taken together with Zyrtec, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and other oral antihistamines. Taking these medications together can lead to dangerous complications. If you are considering taking elderberry cough syrup with Zyrtec or any other new medication or supplement, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first to ensure safe and effective use.
Can Elderberry Cough Syrup And Zyrtec Be Taken Together?
While there are no known severe, serious, or moderate interactions between elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec, it’s important to note that elderberry can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking elderberry cough syrup along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or medication, including elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec. Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine without consulting with your healthcare provider first.
In general, it’s important to be cautious about potential cold and flu medicine interactions because you might not realize that certain drugs don’t mix well. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a drug-drug interaction occurs when two or more medications interact with each other. This can happen when you take a cold or flu medication that interferes with the action of another medicine that you’re taking, or when you take multiple medications that cause side effects when combined.
While elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec can both be effective in alleviating cold and flu symptoms, it’s important to use them responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Potential Interactions Between Elderberry Cough Syrup And Zyrtec
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a popular ingredient in supplements and is commonly used for the common cold, flu, high cholesterol, and many other conditions. It is known to have activity against viruses, including the flu, and might affect the immune system. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses, including using elderberry for COVID-19.
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by chronic urticaria (hives). However, there are 249 drugs known to interact with Zyrtec, including 246 moderate interactions and 1 major interaction.
When taking elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec together, there is a potential for drug interactions. While elderberry has no known severe, serious, or moderate interactions with other drugs, it has mild interactions with at least 28 different drugs. Therefore, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking elderberry cough syrup with Zyrtec.
Fever and lack of sleep are the biggest problems for people who are ill and have epilepsy. These can make it easier for your brain to have a seizure. However, pseudoephedrine and dextromethorphan can also lower the seizure threshold and are common ingredients in many cold medications. Guaifenesin does not seem to be as much of a problem. Some people are also sensitive to antihistamines, so it’s suggested to avoid diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).
Tips For Managing Cold And Flu Symptoms With Elderberry Cough Syrup And Zyrtec
If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms and are considering taking elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec together, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any new medications or supplements, including elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec. They can advise you on potential interactions and help you determine if these medications are safe for you to take together.
2. If you are experiencing a fever, consider placing a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead to aid in bringing down your body temperature. Pain relievers can also help diminish a fever.
3. Cough suppressants like Robitussin and Delsym can help alleviate cough symptoms. Expectorants like Mucinex can help loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up.
4. Vapor rubs like Vicks can provide relief for congestion and cough symptoms.
5. Elderberry syrup has been shown to reduce flu symptoms when taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms. However, it might not be helpful in some people, including those with lung conditions or children under 12 years of age.
6. Adding moisture into the air you are breathing at home is beneficial as well. With a vaporizer, you can even add menthol to the water for added relief.
7. Zyrtec is an antihistamine that can help alleviate allergy symptoms, but it may not be effective for cold or flu symptoms.
8. If you experience any adverse reactions while taking elderberry cough syrup and Zyrtec together, stop taking them immediately and consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Remember, the best way to prevent cold and flu symptoms is to wash your hands frequently, stay away from people who are sick, and get your flu shot to improve your odds of staying healthy this winter.
